Wynfred E. (Mattes) Collins

Wynfred E. (Mattes) Collins was born to Fred and Lois (Sipp) Mattes April 20, 1917, on her parent’s farm near Winside, Neb. She passed away Feb. 19, 2017, at Gordon Countryside Care. She was baptized into the Lutheran church and also attended school in Winside, Neb.

On May 15, 1936, Wynfred was united in marriage to Archie L. Collins. Born to this union were two children, Archie Fred and Mary Kay. In 1942 the family moved to the Gordon area. Settling at their present home in 1948.

At the young age of 99, Wynfred continued to enjoy baking and making salads for her family, many friends and neighbors. She continued to tend to her ranch business and greatly enjoyed visiting about days gone by. She had a fantastic memory, and was admired by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Wynfred was a member of the Grace Lutheran Church and Ladies Gild. Earlier in life Wynfred enjoyed being active in the Albany Pine Bluffs extension club and served as a school board member of the Albany Pine Lodge School. In March 1995, Wynfred was awarded the Natural Resource Award for her conservation accomplishments.

Wynfred was proceeded in death by her parents; Fred Mattes, Lois Mattes DeWolf, and step father Horace DeWolf; her husband of 38 years Archie L. Collins; son-in-law Larry Novotny and grandchildren; Roger McMillin and Robin Novotny.